Country Tails

Are Kombucha Cocktails The New Elixir Of Life?

Kombucha – a modern health ‘fad’ or an ‘immortal health elixir’ that we should all be drinking? If you follow any health bloggers or social media pages, the likelihood is you’ve heard of this fermented tea, but what actually is it and should we be drinking it? Following on from our feature on Turmeric last week, we have decided to investigate Kombucha and its mysterious powers. Should we be mixing it with our award-winning Chase Vodka? Read on to find out.

What is Kombucha?

Kombucha is by no means a new invention, it has been around for thousands of years, originating in the far East. Whilst it is not clear exactly how it came about, history suggests that it was invented by accident when some sweetened tea was left to ferment. A mix of symbiotic bacteria and yeast then produces a ‘mother’ (the same that is found in Apple Cider Vinegar) that leaves the drink rich in B-vitamins and antioxidants. The mother is essential to the production of Kombucha, it’s like a biochemical powerhouse in your kitchen!

How can it help you?

So why should I drink something that looks so disgusting you say? Well, Kombucha is rich in many of the enzymes that your body uses to cleanse the liver. By adding these enzymes to your system, you are helping speed up the detoxification process and protecting your liver from damage. Due to its natural fermentation, Kombucha is also full of probiotics that help to improve your digestion. On top of this it’s low calorie and tastes delicious – like a slightly sour soda.

So, what are you waiting for? You can buy a ready-made Kombucha from most large supermarkets and health stores, or if you’re really brave, you can make your own! Follow the recipe below to make a delicious cocktail that you won’t feel guilty indulging in this weekend.

Ginger Kombucha Cocktail

150ml Kombucha

50ml Chase Vodka

17.5ml Ginger Syrup (you can buy this in larger stores or use the syrup from a jar of crystallized stem ginger)